Through the season he so impressed P.T. Barnum that the showman decided to make a special presentation to the young man during an afternoon performance of the circus. Cuttings of the following two articles, which appear to be from different newspapers, were in James L. Hutchinson�s own collection, contained in a small Safe Deposit envelope, which may well have also at one time contained the gold medal itself. The medal is held by Guy Hutchinson, Jr., 1999.
[Unidentified newspaper, 1871
The many friends of Mr. Jas. L. Hutchinson in this city will be pleased to see the following relating to him taken from a recent number of the Troy Whig.
�A Pleasing Episode- Yesterday afternoon P.T.Barnum Esq., introduced a new and pleasing feature into his varied and unique entertainments. In his employ, as agent for his book containing a history of his struggle and triumphs, is a young man names James L. Hutchinson, who by his fidelity and ability has won Mr. Barnum�s esteem, and yesterday afternoon at an appropriate moment during the performance Mr. Barnum called young Hutchinson out and presented him with an elegant gold medal appropriately engraved. On the face is �as a token�and correct habits observed by him while acting as my agent, P.T. Barnum, 1871.� On the reverse is engraved a book encircling which is inscribed. �Integrity, temperance and truth always triumph.� Mr. Barnum made a neat presentation speech giving the young man some fatherly advice, to which Mr. Hutchinson responded in fitting terms. The immense audience applauded, and Mr. Barnum and the lucky recipient of his esteem withdrew in good order.�
Unidentified newspaper, 1871
In presenting the medal Mr. Barnum said:
�Ladies and Gentlemen: It has been my custom throughout my managerial career, to introduce as many new and pleasing features into my exhibition as possible, and to this end, something novel is introduced at nearly every one of these performances, Today, I propose to introduce a feature, not altogether new, but one which to me is pleasing, as I trust it will be to you. This young gentleman (turning to Mr. Hutchinson) has been in my employ since the commencement of the present season, as my agent for the sale of my autobiography, and by his ability, fidelity and correct deportment, ahs not only won my esteem, but my admiration, and as a recognition of his valuable services, I desire to thus publicly present him with this medal, as a souvenir of his connection with this establishment. Upon it are engraved sentiment, which, if faithfully carried out, cannot fail."
Provenence: Newspaper articles from James L. Hutchinson�s scrapbook (Guy Hutchinson 1999)